He says his department hasn’t seen an increase in rodent complaints, but says those problems are more likely in urban, commercial areas.

Deatrich says it’s a good reminder for people, especially those living in cities, to eliminate shelter, food and water from rodents.

“You want to eliminate pet foods,” he says. “A lot of people put pet foods out at night. Try to eliminate bird food that drops on the ground, certainly rats like that. Make sure your garbage — when you put it out — put it in a container that has a tight-fitting lid.”

Deatrich also recommends sealing up access to homes, sheds and garages, to eliminate places for rats to shelter.